Shakespeare Shorts 2020

Our global short film competition

Shakespeare Shorts is back for 2020!

Shakespeare Shorts is a short film competition brought to you by the Shakespeare Birthplace Trust. Submissions are welcomed from film-makers of all ages and abilities, anywhere in the world. Submissions for our 2020 competition are open now via Film Freeway.

There have been many direct adaptations when it comes to Shakespeare on film, such as Baz Lurman’s Romeo+Juliet (1996) which uses Shakespeare’s original language in a strikingly modern setting, but there have also been some more unexpected adaptations, such as The Lion King (1994), which is based on Hamlet and popular American teen classic She’s The Man (2006), based on Twelfth Night.

We're looking forward to seeing your adaptations and interpretations of Shakespeare in this year's competition. You can also find out more about our entry guidelines and get some inspiration from our previous winners.

Categories

Best interpretation of a passage from Shakespeare (up to 10 mins)

Best film inspired by Shakespeare (up to 10 mins)

Best Shakespeare themed Animation (up to 5 mins)

Prizes

The winners of each category receive feedback from our patron Kenneth Branagh. A selection of winners and highly commended entries also have the honour of being screened here in Stratford-upon-Avon (date TBC).

Entry

Submissions to the above categories will ONLY be accepted via Film Freeway by 23:59 BST on 1 September 2020.

The competition is free to enter and we encourage new and experienced filmmakers from around the world to take part. For simple tips to get young filmmakers started, take a look at these resources by Into Film.

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Sharing Shakespeare with the World

We rely on the support of visitors, donors, Friends and volunteers to help inspire future generations through Shakespeare's works, life and times.

The independent charity that cares for the world’s greatest Shakespeare heritage sites in Stratford-upon-Avon, and promotes the enjoyment and understanding of his works, life and times all over the world. Celebrating Shakespeare is at the heart of everything we do.